A Community That Shows Up - A Letter From the CEO

Dear Friend, 
I want to begin by expressing deep gratitude to our Montgomery County elected officials, and to our local, state, and federal leaders who have spoken out against actions that are causing real harm to our neighbors. At a time when many in our community, particularly neighbors of color and those born outside of the United States, are experiencing fear, uncertainty, and distress, these voices of opposition matter. 

 
There is understandable concern and outrage surrounding current federal actions and processes. While we recognize there is a spectrum to the severity of ICE’s enforcement, and not all our neighbors are facing the most extreme consequences, harm is still being done in our community. There is no doubt the current environment means our clients are living in a state of constant fear about what might happen to them. We are seeing more aggressive actions, requests for documentation, demands for proof of citizenship, and profiling that targets individuals simply based on how they look or where they are perceived to be from. We must remain vigilant and cautious, especially as we anticipate the possibility of further escalation. Click here for my formal statement.

 
In this challenging moment, I am profoundly grateful for and incredibly proud of our community, which has stepped up in powerful ways, speaking out and standing together in support of one another. This includes being there for our most vulnerable neighbors, as you did for Interfaith Works during our end-of-year campaign. You helped us far exceed our end-of-year fundraising goal, which helps clients across allour programs. You donated thousands of gifts – clothing, household goods, toys – ensuring that our clients’ needs were met during the holiday season. You showed up with your time, your resources, and your compassion. 

 
As we acknowledge the moment we are living in, I remain thankful for the way Montgomery County continues to show up. Our leaders are speaking out against injustice, and so are our supporters. Thank you for standing with us and for making it possible for Interfaith Works to continue providing care, stability, and dignity to our most vulnerable neighbors. 

 
With gratitude, 

Courtney Hall, CEO